James O'Brien Daily

The White House press secretary has said President Trump’s decision to attack Iran was grounded in “feeling based on fact”. So, as the sixth day of the war in the Middle East rages on, the Trump administration continues to change its story as to why it even started this war. Why do you think it started it?

This episode was recorded on the 5th of March. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

James breaks down the latest from the war in the Middle East, asks why President Trump really started this conflict, discusses whether Sir Keir Starmer’s belittling by Trump is actually a very good thing and receives Washington Correspondent Simon Marks’ analysis.

Also, James also speaks with Victoria Rose, a consultant plastic surgeon and one of the many medics who say they have been barred from Gaza after speaking out against Israel.

And, James is joined by Usman Shah, the London man who was racially abused online after appearing on a welcome to Heathrow poster - and then met the people the trolls that did it.

This episode was recorded on the 4th of March. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

The US has warned of an "imminent" Iranian attack in the Saudi city of Dhahran, a major centre for the oil industry and where a US consulate is located. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump tells Iran it's "too late" to talk, adding their armed forces are “gone”.

The death toll continues to sky rocket, and Trump has again criticised Sir Keir Starmer for initially denying access to British bases.How can anyone oppose Starmer’s actions thus far, and, more importantly - how does this war end?

This episode was recorded on the 3rd of March. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Sir Keir Starmer "stands by" his decision not to join in with Israeli and US strikes on Iran, stating that the UK had learned lessons from the "mistakes of Iraq" - but has agreed to a US request to use British military bases for "defensive" strikes on Iranian missile sites.

Has Starmer got this right?

This episode was recorded on the 2nd of March. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

34-year-old plumber Hannah Spencer marked her victory in the Gorton and Denton by-election with an apology to her customers, saying: "I think I might have to cancel the work that you had booked in, because I'm heading to Parliament. Is something seismic happening in the Green Party?

This episode was recorded on the 27th of February. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

A damning report published on England’s maternity care revealed systemic problems, including bereaved mothers facing cruelty from maternity staff, shocking incidents of racism, and a lack of accountability. Hospitals that have caused harm to women and babies were often found to “cover-up” their mistakes, falsify medical records and deny bereaved parents answers. James’ callers share their experiences.

This episode was recorded on the 26th of February. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Time to discuss the Green Party. No scaremongering, no lazy stereotypes, just these simple questions: Why are the Greens surging in popularity, and how are they reaching parts that no other parties can?

Also, James is joined by LBC’s Washington Editor, Simon Marks, for a breakdown of Donald Trump’s longest State of the Union address yet, in which he claimed the US would see an “economic turnaround for the ages”.

And, James speaks with Evan Edinger, the YouTuber whose video Something Very Strange Is Happening To London documents how the capital is being misrepresented online.

This episode was recorded on the 25th of February. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

The head of the British Armed Forces and the Chief of MI6 have warned of the distinct possibility that Britain will be pulled into war with Russia. The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, said that Putin has already started World War 3. Why then, are we all so relaxed about it?

And, the BBC has apologised for not editing out the n-word racial slur from its BAFTA Film Awards coverage, after a guest with Tourette's syndrome shouted it out when two of film’s biggest stars, Michael B Jordan and Delroy Lindo, were on stage. What should have been done differently?

This episode was recorded on the 24th of February. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

“I’ll ensure no child with special needs is left behind”... Sir Keir Starmer has set out a £4 billion package to reform special needs education, as he states that the current system supporting disabled children in schools “does not work”. James’ callers bravely share what it was like to be at school before special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) provision.

This episode was recorded on the 23rd of February. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, was released from custody after 11 hours last night, following his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office in relation to the Epstein Files.

Will the Royal Family survive this scandal? And, why do we even still believe in the Monarchy?

This episode was recorded on the 20th of February. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Today, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor (formerly known as Prince Andrew) was arrested by police. He remains in custody on suspicion of misconduct in public office. While the police searched several of Mountbatten-Windsor's residences for evidence, including the Royal Lodge in Windsor, the King released a statement saying "the law must take its course".

James speaks with LBC reporters on the ground at Windsor, host of The News Agents Podcast, Emily Maitlis, who's landmark interview with Mountbatten-Windsor about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein set the tone for much of the journalism that followed, and Simon Marks, to hear how the news is being received in the US.

This episode was recorded on the 19th of February. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

In their election manifesto, Labour committed to increasing the minimum wage of 18 to 20 year olds inline with those over 21... however, it’s been reported these changes are being delayed. Is it fair for an 18 year old to be given the same minimum wage as a 50 or 60 year old?

And, middle-class women in their thirties and forties make up the bulk of the over 2 million people taking weight-loss jabs in the UK, a study has revealed. Most pay hundreds of pounds each month for the jabs. Are these drugs really good for society?

This episode was recorded on the 18th of February. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

James O'Brien listeners, we've got a new podcast we think you'll love.

Step inside sport’s greatest soap opera, Formula One, with a brand-new podcast Up To Speed. Hosted by Drive to Survive star Will Buxton, racing driver-turned-broadcaster Naomi Schiff, 13-time Grand Prix winner David Coulthard, and F1 content creator Jolie Sharpe.

Expect razor-sharp reaction, behind-the-scenes insight, blockbuster interviews and answers to the questions you’ve always wanted to ask! With their deep knowledge, expert analysis and infectious love for racing, Will, Naomi, DC & Jolie dive into the stories that matter - on and off the track.

It’s fast-paced, unfiltered and full of the gossip that keeps the paddock buzzing.

They’ll react to the weekend's race drama every Monday. On Thursday they’ll deep dive into the biggest stories of the week.

Watch and listen to episode 1 now on Global Player, YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts.

Reform UK is no longer the bookmakers’ favourites to win the most seats at the next general election, according to new odds from Ladbrokes. This comes as a surprise to James, who asks why the Labour party appears to be doing so well.

And, parents in Enfield, North London, have been told their children could be excluded from school if they are not fully vaccinated against measles, amid a recent outbreak. Should kids be excluded until they’re vaccinated? And, how do you handle a family member that is an anti-vaxxer?

This episode was recorded on the 17th of February. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

The government has announced a crackdown on tech firms to protect children from harmful online content that could open the door to an Australia-style social media ban… but what is it specifically that makes social media so harmful?

And, Britain and Germany’s highest ranking military leaders have made an unprecedented joint appeal to the public to accept the “moral” case for rearmament and the preparation for war with Russia. How can you convince the UK public that war with Russia is a possibility?

This episode was recorded on the 16th of February. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

The former Conservative Education Secretary, Nadhim Zahawi, who is now a member of Reform UK, said on LBC that Sir Jim Ratcliffe is right on immigration. Why don’t black and brown right-wing politicians realise that when Ratcliffe claims immigrants are “colonising the UK”, that he’s talking about them?

This episode was recorded on the 13th of February. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

The Monaco-based billionaire and Manchester United co-owner,Jim Ratcliffe, has faced a barrage of criticism since saying in an interview that the UK was being “colonised” by immigrants and citing inaccurate statistics, labelled as hypocritical and reminiscent of “far-right narratives”. What's it like as an ethnic minority person living in a country where racism is back in fashion?

This episode was recorded on the 12th of February. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

King Charles has said he’s “ready to support” the police as they consider allegations against Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, his brother. Shouldn’t the public be holding the Royal Family - which paid an estimated £12m to settle a sexual abuse case brought by Virginia Giuffre against Andrew in 2022 - under the same scrutiny as Sir Keir Starmer? Why doesn't society care more about Jeffrey Epstein's victims?

Washington Correspondent Simon Marks shares the most important developments from the US and James discusses Seamus Culleton, the Irish national who’s been detained by ICE for five months, despite having all necessary documents, with his lawyer, Attorney Ogor Winnie Okoye.

This episode was recorded on the 11th of February. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Sir Keir Starmer has said he’ll "never walk away from the country that I love" and thanked his cabinet for their support after Scottish Labour Leader Anas Sarwar called for him to stand down over the Mandelson-Epstein disaster.

What does Starmer need to do now? What do you want from the Prime Minister? And, what's the opposition of populism?

Plus, LBC Reporter Henry Riley is in the studio for always illuminating "Reform UK Watch".

This episode was recorded on the 10th of February. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Several cabinet ministers have publicly backed Keir Starmer after Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar called on the PM to resign over the Epstein-Madelson controversy. James asks why Keir Starmer is seemingly ill-suited for the role of Prime Minister, and is joined by LBC's Political Editor Natasha Clark to run through the resignation of Starmer's former director of communications, Tim Allan.

This episode was recorded on the 9th of February. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Is Sir Keir Starmer’s time up? Some journalists are saying that it is, but James wants to look into how the situation might unfold and asks listeners to answer the question ‘Just why is Keir Starmer in so much trouble?’.

In his final hour, James steps away from Keir Starmer, to talk about racism after an image that’s been shared online.

This episode was recorded on the 6th February. Catch James O’Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Sir Keir Starmer today apologised to Jeffrey Epstein's victims and says he is "sorry for having believed Mandelson's lies", ahead of appointing him as US Ambassador, saying he gave the impression he "barely knew" Epstein. James analyses the speech and asks his callers what they think… is this the end of the road for Starmer?

This episode was recorded on the 5th of February. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Keir Starmer said today that Peter Mandelson has "lied repeatedly" about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, that he regrets appointing Mandelson as US ambassador in 2024, and that he’ll release all material relating to the appointment - with some exemptions in the interest of national security. Kemi Badenoch has accused Starmer of trying to "sabotage" this file release, and opposition MPs are demanding answers. Will Keir Starmer survive this?

This episode was recorded on the 4th of February. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Peter Mandelson is to step down from the House of Lords after the latest release of Epstein files appear to show he leaked sensitive information to Jeffrey Epstein in 2009 - after Epstein’s conviction of procuring a child for prostitution in 2008. What is wrong with the former Lord Mandelson?

On a rather different note, the charity National Landscapes is undertaking government funded plans to remove barriers to ethnic minorities in each of its 46 “areas of outstanding natural beauty”. Why is it so important to have a connection to nature?

This episode was recorded on the 3rd of February. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Millions of the so-called “Epstein Files” have been released by the US Department of Justice, the largest number of documents shared by the government since a law mandated their release last year. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor (formerly Prince Andrew), President Donald Trump, Peter Mandelson, Bill Clinton and Elon Musk are just a few of the vast number of rich and powerful people implicated. So… why hasn’t the world stopped yet?

This episode was recorded on the 2nd of Feb. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Sir Keir Starmer has brushed off criticism from Donald Trump after a visit to China, during which he negotiated the lifting of sanctions on British MPs. Should we be doing business with China, and why do we know so little about the world’s second biggest economy?

And, Kemi Badenoch has said that centrist ideas are no longer wanted in the Conservative Party, arguing that one nation-type Tories or those who have qualms over the party's move to the right “need to get out of the way”. Where do old-school Tories go now?

This episode was recorded on the 30th of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Donald Trump has warned Iran that "time is running out" to negotiate a deal on its nuclear programme following the steady build-up of US military forces in the Gulf. The risk of military intervention edges closer... so James asks his listeners with connections to Iran whether they’d support an American attack.

And, James is joined by LBC Reporter Henry Riley, with an exclusive story - Reform Leader Nigel Farage has opened an investigation into a Reform candidate, Mike Manning, after he was accused of “antisemitic and xenophobic” social media posts by a senior Liberal Democrat MP.

This episode was recorded on the 29th of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Freeholders may “resort to lawfare” to block the government’s £250 cap on ground rents, Angela Rayner has warned, as leasehold experts urged ministers to speed up the “glacial” pace of reform. James digs into the truth around leaseholds - is it a heinous system that protects the interests of the wealthy?

And, James is joined by Washington Editor Simon Marks who shares the latest from the US following the killings of Alex Pretti and Renee Nicole Good by ICE, as well as Donald Trump’s warning to Iran today ‘that time is running out’ for them to avert an American military intervention.

This episode was recorded on the 28th of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Around 50 Labour MPs have signed a letter objecting to Sir Keir Starmer’s decision to block Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham from standing in a forthcoming by-election. Is he acting for the greater good?

Shockingly, a quarter of UK GPs are seeing obese children aged 4 and younger. Why do we still have such an alarming problem with childhood obesity, and how should parents and doctors tackle it?

Also, talented white working-class pupils “lose ground” at secondary school, compared with their black and Asian peers, a study has found. If you grew up in a household where education wasn't valued, what is that like, and how do you break the cycle?

And, in honour of Holocaust Memorial Day, James shares some powerful words from the late Lilli Pohlmann, who was a holocaust survivor and James’ dear friend.

This episode was recorded on the 27th of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Two killings in Minneapolis by ICE in two weeks… Alex Pretti was a 37-year-old intensive care nurse who supported veterans with life threatening illnesses. The Trump administration labelled Pretti as a “domestic terrorist” who was looking to cause harm - this is at odds with the footage of the incident, a video that has caused global outrage.

James is pretty certain that the US has crossed the line into fascism… how should this be covered in the media and what does it mean for our greatest historical ally to be a fascist state?

This episode was recorded on the 26th of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

President Donald Trump has claimed NATO troops avoided the front lines during the Afghanistan War and that he “wasn’t sure” troops would support the US in the future. 457 British service personnel were killed in the conflict. James speaks with those who’ve served in the forces to discuss just how wrong - and offensive - Trump’s claims are.

And, James is also joined by Emily Maitlis, who’s been in Minneapolis reporting on ICE’s activities, including the detainment of a 5-year old boy in Minnesota yesterday.

This episode was recorded on the 23rd of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

President Trump has backed down on his tariff threats against the European states who opposed his plans to take over Greenland. He then announced a Gaza “Master Plan” and his Board of Peace, inviting world leaders, including Vladimir Putin and Benjamin Netanyahu, to join after paying an entry fee of £1b each. What can we actually learn from this?

This episode was recorded on the 22nd of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Donald Trump has told European leaders that the US is the “only country” that could secure Greenland, calling for "immediate negotiations" to acquire the Danish territory, but insisting he "won't use force"... How do we explain why Trump is doing all of this? And, how have British commentators been so unbelievably wrong about him?

And, James is joined by comedian Stewart Lee, who’s needing to rewrite some of the material for his latest tour given the recent upturning of the entire world order.

This episode was recorded on the 21st of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Donald Trump said there was "no going back" on his plan to take control of Greenland. He also posted images of himself placing an American flag on the Danish territory, and a message that seemingly shows the NATO General Secretary supporting his demands. Should Europe hit back?

And, Brooklyn Beckham has launched an astonishing attack on his “controlling” parents, cutting them off and claiming they’ve consistently tried to ruin his marriage. It's easy to forget that the Beckham’s deal with family problems too… James asks his callers to share their own experiences of parental estrangement.

This episode was recorded on the 20th of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

James starts with Keir Starmer's national address today, in which he said Donald Trump's plan to impose tariffs on the UK for its support of Greenland was “hugely wrong”. Should the Prime Minister have done more? Also sharing his analysis is LBC's Washington Editor Simon Marks.

And, Prince Harry and another six claimants, including Elton John and Baroness Doreen Lawrence, the mother of Stephen Lawrence, are taking the Daily Mail publishers to court. James speaks with Dr Evan Harris, Former Lib Dem MP and a member of the claimants’ legal team, for more information.

This episode was recorded on the 19th of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Britain’s voting behaviour is becoming ever more erratic, as public trust in mainstream politics continues to fray. From the long tail of Brexit to the hypocrisies of the Conservatives, James unpacks why political disillusionment is deepening and how populist sentiment has filled the vacuum. With former Tory figures finding a home in Nigel Farage’s camp, is this realignment a protest vote, or a sign of something far more terminal for British politics?

And, the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan joins the conversation to challenge misrepresentations of the capital, confront the worsening housing crisis, and warn of AI’s growing threat to jobs.

This episode was recorded on the 16th of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Of the Iranian regime and the high probability of American military intervention, Donald Trump’s potential annexation of Greenland, and Russia’s all-out assault of Ukraine, which is the crisis that is most devastatingly urgent?

And, today, former Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick joined Reform UK after being sacked by Conservative Leader Kemi Badenoch. Is a nail in the Conservative’s coffin?

This episode was recorded on the 15th of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

President Trump says the US will take "very strong action" against Iran if it continues executing anti-government demonstrators, following more than 2,400 protestors being killed by the Iranian authorities so far, according to the HRANA. The question remains - if we consider prior examples of American military intervention, should the US get involved in Iran?

And, the NHS will not be allowed to offer training jobs to foreign doctors unless no British doctors have applied for the role, under legislation being fast-tracked through parliament. Is this right?

This episode was recorded on the 14th of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Sir Keir Starmer stated today that X (formerly known as Twitter) could lose the "right to self regulate", if it didn’t prevent users from creating sexual images of children of women with the AI chatbot, Grok. Elon Musk is describing this as censorship and fascism… how is this even a debate?

And, the government is reportedly considering an Australia-style social media ban on social media for under-16s in the UK. What does social media specifically do to children that causes them such harm?

This episode was recorded on the 13th of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Over 500 protestors have been killed in Iran, according to the US-based rights group HRANA, since public demonstrations against the Islamic Republic government began in late December. Last night, President Trump warned the US is considering "very strong options" to intervene in the country. Should America militarily intervene?

And, two-thirds of UK voters believe immigration is increasing despite sharp falls in the number of people entering the UK, according to a recent poll. Why is this, and why are the most anti-immigrant among us the most ignorant to the reality?

This episode was recorded on the 12th of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

The Government is set to water down forthcoming increases to business rates bills faced by pubs in England. Is this a sign of weakness? Or, that they're listening?

Also, following huge controversy around X (formerly known as Twitter) users “digitally undressing" women and girls with the platform’s AI feature, Grok, Elon Musk has restricted the feature to paying users only. Downing Street has described this move as "insulting" to victims of misogyny and sexual violence. Why is Musk allowing this to continue?

And, James is joined by Washington Correspondent, Simon Marks, for the latest from the US following the fatal shooting of Renée Nicole Good in Minneapolis by an ICE agent.

This episode was recorded on the 9th of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

A woman shot dead in her car by an ICE agent in Minneapolis has been identified as Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old mother of three. President Trump claimed the agent acted in self defence and that Good had “ran him over”, but this is clearly at odds with widely circulated videos of the incident. Minneapolis’ mayor, Jacob Frey, described the Trump’s claim as “bullsh*t” and demanded ICE officers leave the city.

James breaks down the conflicting responses to the incident, is joined by Washington Correspondent Simon Marks and asks why the US government won’t tell the truth of this tragedy.

This episode was recorded on the 8th of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Donald Trump’s supposed rationale for taking over Venezuela and potentially invading Greenland are disintegrating before our eyes. So, why is he actually doing it?

And, James speaks with Eddie Perez, a former director at X (then called Twitter), who breaks down the appalling news that X users are “digitally undressing” people, including children, using the platform’s AI chatbot, Grok, with next to no pushback from owner Elon Musk.

This episode was recorded on the 7th of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Yesterday, Stephen Miller, the White House Deputy Chief of Staff, doubled down on President Donald Trump’s threat to annex Greenland. Today, six European allies, including the UK, released a joint statement condemning the threat against the Danish territory.

If Trump does invade Greenland - what can we actually do about it?

This episode was recorded on the 6th of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

2026 has certainly started with a bang…

Donald Trump has kidnapped the former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, taken control of the country and installed Delcy Rodriguez, a Maduro loyalist, as acting president. Trump’s plans to seize and begin selling the country’s oil, and has turned his eye once again to Greenland, renewing his repeated threat of annexing the Danish territory.

LBC’s Political Editor Natasha Clark questions Sir Keir Starmer on his response to the Greenland threat, while James asks the callers: 1) How should Keir Starmer react? 2) What would an American invasion of Greenland look like? 3) How could we stop it?

This episode was recorded on the 5th of January. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Welcome to Mystery Hour! It's the game where James O'Brien invites the callers to ask and answer the most burning of questions - and no topic is off limits. Put your feet up and get ready to absorb some highly interesting but likely useless information!

James' live LBC programme and the James O'Brien Daily podcast are back from the 5th January. Have a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

This episode was recorded on the 18th of December.

James O'Brien presents... Mystery Hour! It's the game in which callers ask and answer questions about absolutely whatever they want. You're guaranteed to learn and laugh, nothing more unfortunately. Enjoy!

James' live LBC programme and the James O'Brien Daily podcast are back from the 5th January. Have a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

This episode was recorded on the 11th of December.

Welcome to another instalment of James O'Brien's Mystery Hour! It's the game which you are guaranteed to learn something from... just maybe not something useful. Conversely, James and the callers might just crack the mysteries of the universe with this one!

James' live LBC programme and the James O'Brien Daily podcast are back from the 5th January. Have a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

This episode was recorded on the 4th of December.

Over the Christmas period why not put your feet up and enjoy all the latest instalments of James Obrien's Mystery Hour - the game in which listeners call up to ask questions about whatever - and I mean whatever -they want. Then the rest call in if they think they've got the answer!

James' live LBC programme and the James O'Brien Daily podcast are back from the 5th January. Have a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

This episode was recorded on the 27th of November.

Time for another instalment of Mystery Hour, the feature in which James O'Brien and his callers do their best to solve the world's greatest mysteries... or thereabouts. Enjoy!

James' live LBC programme and the James O'Brien Daily podcast are back from the 5th January. Have a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

This episode was recorded on the 20th of November.

While you tuck into those Christmas dinner leftovers, why not also tuck into another instalment of Mystery Hour! It's the feature in which James' callers ask and answer questions about absolutely anything... the type of questions that Google doesn't even know the answer to (well, Google might know, but it's much more fun this way). Enjoy!

James' live LBC programme and the James O'Brien Daily podcast are back from the 5th January. Have a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

This episode was recorded on the 13th of November.

Time for your next instalment of Mystery Hour, the game in which James invites his callers to ask and answer questions about absolutely anything. You are guaranteed to learn something new after listening to this (however please note James cannot guarantee the usefulness of any newly acquired knowledge).

James' live LBC programme and the James O'Brien Daily podcast are back from the 5th January. Have a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

This episode was recorded on the 6th of November.

Get into another episode of Mystery Hour, the feature in which James invites the callers to ask and answer the most burning of questions. Mysteries of the universe type questions. The meaning of life type questions. What do dogs dream about type questions. Enjoy!

James' live LBC programme and the James O'Brien Daily podcast is back from the 5th January. Have a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

This episode was recorded on the 30th of October.

It's Mystery Hour time, the game in which James' callers ask and answer questions about any topic they like. Prepare yourself to acquire knowledge beyond your wildest dreams...

James' live LBC programme and the James O'Brien Daily podcast is back from the 5th January. Have a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

This episode was recorded on the 23rd of October.

Over the Christmas period why not have a giggle and tuck into the latest episodes of Mystery Hour - the game where James O'Brien invites the callers to ask and then answer questions about absolutely whatever they want!

James' live LBC programme and the James O'Brien Daily podcast is back from the 5th January. Have a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

This episode was recorded on the 16th of October.

In response to the Prime Minister’s announcement of a strategy to tackle violence against women and girls, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has said Labour should focus on migrants ‘from cultures that don’t respect women’ rather than tackling misogyny in schools. Why is Badenoch denying reality?

Also, James takes a look back at the most significant moments of 2025, speaks to the callers about that Oval office meeting between Donald Trump, JD Vance and Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and is joined by Washington Editor Simon Marks to round up the latest from the US.

This is the last episode of James O’Brien Daily of 2025! James will be back on the 5th January, but in the meantime, his most recent episodes of Mystery Hour will be available right here, every week-day. Have a very merry Christmas.

The government has unveiled its long awaited strategy to halve violence against women and girls in the next decade - teachers will be given training to spot and tackle misogyny in the classroom, while high-risk pupils could be sent on behavioural courses. What is this new brand of Andrew Tate-style misogyny, and what are the warning signs in the classroom?

And, Nigel Farage has been told to apologise for his alleged extreme teenage racism by 26 school contemporaries. Farage has, so far, refused to apologise, maintaining that the allegations are false and politically motivated - why?

This episode was recorded on the 18th of December. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

The government has confirmed the UK will rejoin the Erasmus student exchange programme from 2027, allowing students to immerse themselves in a different culture and grow their foreign language skills in Europe. Why are Brits so bad at speaking foreign languages and what difference can languages make to your life?

And, half of people arrested recently in London were found to potentially have undiagnosed ADHD, according to a Cambridge University study calling for better neurodivergence screening for vulnerable individuals. James’ callers explain why their own ADHD can lead to behaviours resulting in problematic police encounters.

This episode was recorded on the 17th of December. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

The 5 day resident doctor’s strike will go ahead from tomorrow in England, as planned, after the government's offer to postpone the action until the new year in order to alleviate NHS pressure was heartily rejected by BMA members.

If we trust doctor's with our lives, why shouldn't we trust them when they tell us they they have to go on strike? 

This episode was recorded on the 16th of December. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Two gunmen, a father and son, opened fire on Bondi Beach in Sydney on Sunday, killing 15 people attending a Hanukkah event. The Australian Prime Minister described the tragedy as an attack motivated by “extremist ideology”. The victims include a 10-year-old girl, a British-born rabbi, a retired police officer and a Holocaust survivor. 

Is it right, or even possible, to talk about the attack without referring to Gaza?

This episode was recorded on the 15th of December. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting has warned of “probably the worst pressure the NHS has faced since Covid" occurring next week, when the next resident doctors strike will clash with soaring numbers of flu patients. Ministers have proposed a last minute deal in an attempt to appease the BMA, but in the case that this is not accepted, Streeting has also offered an extension on the union's mandate so that the strike could be postponed until January. James thinks Streeting has played a blinder here - do you?

And, today on LBC, Met Police chief Sir Mark Rowley described Donald Trump’s claims about violent crime in London as “complete nonsense” - claims which are peddled by many Brits on the right. Why do so many of us join in with untrue, hostile attacks on London?

This episode was recorded on the 12th of December. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has launched The Youth Matters plan, a £500m strategy aimed at protecting the UK’s youth. The plan aims to give 500,000 more young people access to a trusted adult outside their home, boost resilience and teach essential skills. What difference did youth clubs, or a lack thereof, make to you?

Also, Justice Secretary David Lammy is considering wiping childhood criminal records clean. The proposal looks to simplify the criminal records check system and prevent minor teenage offences from negatively impacting adult job prospects. James asks his callers to share the reality of having your life impacted by a childhood offence.

And,  James is joined by Washington Editor Simon Marks to talk through Donald Trump’s latest policy announcement that could lead to tourists being required to provide five years of social media history to enter the US.

This episode was recorded on the 11th of December. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

A top NHS executive has urged people with cold or flu symptoms to wear a face mask in public as the hospitals brace for a “tidal wave” of illness this winter. Why then are so many of us against the idea of wearing face masks?

Also, a report commissioned into Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy, a school in East London, found that pupils have been harmed by shouting, public humiliation and a lack of special needs support. What does a climate of fear do to a child at school? What did it do to you?

And, and LBC investigation has found that a former Metropolitan Police officer was accused of being involved in a London paedophile ring while serving with the force, but the case was “brushed under the carpet” and “covered up”. Andy Hughes, LBC’s Crime Correspondent, breaks the story with James.

This episode was recorded on the 10th of December. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Russia has welcomed Donald Trump's new National Security Strategy to "end" the Ukraine War, calling it "largely consistent" with Moscow's vision. Why is Trump siding with Russia against Europe and where will it take us? Joining James is Phillips O'Brien, Professor of Strategic Studies at the University of St Andrews, to share his analysis of the tightrope European leaders are walking between supporting Ukraine and keeping Trump sweet.

And, in a world first, Australian children under 16 will be banned from social media. The goal is to protect kids from harmful content, cyber bullying and online grooming... what’s not to love?

This episode was recorded on the 9th of December. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Almost one million young people in the UK are currently not in employment, education or training (NEET). To help tackle this, the government has announced 350,000 new training or workplace opportunities will be offered to young people on universal credit - but that those who don’t engage could have their benefits cut. 

Why are you or the young person in your life in the NEET category? And, what would make a difference?

This episode was recorded on the 8th of December. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Nigel Farage has accused the BBC of double standards after he was asked about numerous claims he used extreme racist and antisemitic language as a teenager, which he denied.

Today, James is joined by one of the many people who've made such claims, Peter Ettedgui, a Jewish former classmate of Nigel Farage's, who told the BBC that Farage had repeatedly said to him "Hitler was right" and "gas them". 

This episode was recorded on the 5th of December. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Wes Streeting will be launching an independent review that’ll investigate whether mental health, ADHD and autism are being over-diagnosed in England - James explores the distinct possibility that it isn’t.

Also, facial recognition technology could be used more often by UK police forces, according to the Home Office. Could this be the “end of privacy as we know it”, as privacy campaign group Big Brother Watch claims?

And, James speaks with Washington Correspondent Simon Marks for the latest Donald Trump-related news, including the President stating that he doesn’t want any Somalian people in the country and that Somalia “stinks”.

This episode was recorded on the 4th of December. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

The UK media is beginning to acknowledge Brexit as the unmitigated failure that it is, partly in thanks to damning findings like the National Bureau of Economic Research’s, that concluded Brexit has reduced UK GDP by 6-8%. This is far more than most previous estimates. The question is finally beginning to be asked… should Labour reverse Brexit?

And, so-called "miracle" weight-loss jabs are currently only available to 1 in 10 people who need them worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. For those of you that do have access, what happens when you stop taking them?

This episode was recorded on the 3rd of December. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Justice Secretary David Lammy has announced the creation of new “swift courts” which will see a judge decide verdicts in thousands of cases where the right to a jury trial will be removed.…  What does this actually mean and what are we so afraid of losing?

Resident doctors have announced a fresh round of strikes with a five-day walkout from the 17th December. Considering their recent wage increase, is this a strike too far? Or do we not know the full picture?

And the UK’s attorney general, one of the most senior Jewish government ministers, Richard Herner has urged Nigel Farage to apologise to school contemporaries who claim the Reform UK leader racially abused them while at school… So why is there not more scrutiny

This episode was recorded on the 2nd of December. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is facing accusations she misled voters and ministers by not revealing upsides in the OBR’s (Office for Budget Responsibility) forecasts for the economy. Starmer and Reeves both defend the Budget and deny that the Chancellor misled anyone. James gets into the nitty gritty and asks what we’re supposed to be angry about here?

And, AI is set to replace 3.4m jobs in the next decade, a major educational research organisation has warned. Are we totally ignoring the reality of this situation? Has AI already taken your job? What hope do our kids have?

This episode was recorded on the 1st of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Net migration to the UK fell by two-thirds in the year ending June 2025 compared with the previous 12 months, according to ONS figures. This has coincided with rising numbers of young people leaving the UK because of its economic and political landscape. Are you leaving the UK? If so, why? And, how can we persuade young people to hang around?

This episode was recorded on the 28th of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Yesterday, Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered her 2025 Budget. Much of the media is in uproar at tax rises, especially the lifting of the two-child benefit cap - but what measures should we actually be angry about?

And, James asks his listeners what their experiences of Universal Credit are, as well as what it’s like being labeled as a scrounger by much of the right-wing media and political class?

This episode was recorded on the 27th of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has unveiled the long-anticipated budget - but not before the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) leaked it! James was joined by fellow LBC presenter Shelagh Fogarty and Politics Editor Natasha Clark to discuss both the fallout from the leak and the budget itself!

Also, Justice Secretary David Lammy is proposing to massively restrict the age old to a jury by trial by only guaranteeing it for defendants facing the most serious of crimes… is this right?

This episode was recorded on the 26th of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Sir Keir Starmer and David Lammy are set to escape Labour’s “mansion tax” after adjustments from the Treasury - the tax will now only apply to houses worth over £2m. Is a mansion tax the right move for the Chancellor?

And, a new study has found that the majority of ethnic minority adults (55%) believe those putting up St George’s crosses as part of the “Operation Raise the Colours” campaign are doing so to express racist and/or anti-migrant sentiment. Has this campaign changed the way you feel about the flag?

This episode was recorded on the 25th of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

With Rachel Reeves’ budget, many more pensioners could be pulled into paying income tax. Are pensioners receiving too much support or should the state pension be means-tested?

And, new research shows obesity rates among the poorest children are nearly double those of their wealthiest classmates. In the modern West, has thinness become a marker of privilege?

Plus, David Cameron has revealed he was treated for prostate cancer after his wife urged him to get checked. Why are men still so reluctant to go to the doctor and is masculinity costing lives?

Carole Cadwalladr also joins James to discuss the mounting pressure for a full government inquiry into Russian interference in UK politics.

This episode was recorded on the 24th of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

The UK Covid-19 Inquiry has found that the government response to the pandemic was "too little, too late" - imposing lockdown a week earlier could have saved 23,000 lives. Worse still, lockdowns could have been avoided altogether, had Boris Johnson’s Conservative government acted with the urgency that was so obviously needed. James asks his callers lay their emotions bare and share the most significant, and often tragic, moments of the pandemic with him.

And, Ex-leader of Reform UK in Wales Nathan Gill has been sentenced to 10-and-a-half years for taking at least £40,000 in pro-Russia bribes - James takes the sentencing live.

This episode was recorded on the 21st of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Senior Pentagon officials are in Ukraine to "discuss efforts to end the war" with Russia. It’s been reported that the potential “peace deal” drawn up by the US and Russia will require Ukraine to give up large amounts of territory and dramatically shrink its military. If Zelenskyy accepted these terms, what would it mean for the world?

And, Labour MP Clive Lewis has offered to give up his seat to allow the Greater Manchester Mayor, Andy Burnham, to challenge Sir Keir Starmer's premiership. This comes shortly after suggestions that Health Secretary Wes Streeting would be challenging Starmer. Why the Prime Minister so unpopular?

This episode was recorded on the 20th of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Britain is not prepared to defend itself from a military attack and the government is moving at a "glacial" speed in response to the threats of Russia and China, the Commons Defence Committee has concluded. Now, in what could be considered a ‘duh’ question, why do we need an army? And what are they realistically used for?

Also, ultra-processed food poses a seismic threat to global health, according to the world’s largest review. Brits are some of the biggest consumers of UPFs… but why? How do we break this addiction?

And, ‘Things happen’… is something that Donald Trump actually said when the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi was brought up in front of himself and the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House. LBC’s US correspondent Simon Marks joins James for all that and more..

This episode was recorded on the 19th of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has defended sweeping changes to the UK's asylum system. Refugee status will become temporary, guaranteed housing support for asylum seekers will end and "safe and legal routes" into the UK will be created. Will these policies actually reduce racism and anti-immigrant sentiment, as Mahmood says?

And, according to new research, the vast majority of people who earn six figure salaries and have more than £1 million in cash savings do not feel rich. Why is this the case?

This episode was recorded on the 18th of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Today, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced sweeping reforms to the UK's asylum system. Most refugees will now have to wait 20 years to apply to settle permanently, with deportations sped up when claims are rejected. Also, “Trump-style” visa bans on Angola, Namibia and the Democratic Republic of Congo are to be applied if their governments don’t cooperate more on deportations. 

Why is the Home Secretary doing this, who is she trying to appeal to and what would it take to diffuse the negative immigration rhetoric that has taken over the UK?

This episode was recorded on the 17th of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has decided against breaking Labour's manifesto promise and raising income tax at the upcoming Budget - despite giving strong indications that she would be. How do you greet this news, and why has Reeves done this?

And, London has been named the best city in the world to live, work and visit for the 11th year in a row by Forbes. Why then do right-wing political figures like Elon Musk and Nigel Farage tell lies about the capital’s crime rates and paint London as a cess-pit of violence?

This episode was recorded on the 14th of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Thousands of documents from disgraced financier and convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein have been released, many of which reference Donald Trump, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Peter Mandelson. Why did Donald Trump campaign on a promise to release the Epstein files, considering he is now so desperate to keep them secret? 

And, UK unemployment has risen to 5%, the highest level in four years. James asks his listeners to share the reality of losing a job and what support, if any, is readily available afterwards.

This episode was recorded on the 13th of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Downing Street was "on alert" last night amid suggestions that Health Secretary Wes Streeting was leading a plot to oust the Prime Minister. Today, Streeting labeled these reports as "ridiculous". However, there is serious dissatisfaction with Keir Starmer, both within and outside of the government. Why is this? Do you want Starmer to go? 

And, James is joined by LBC’s Washington Correspondent Simon Marks to talk through everything from the UK halting intelligence sharing with the US to the threat from Donald Trump to sue the BBC for $1bn.

This episode was recorded on the 12th of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Rachel Reeves has hinted that she is planning to remove the two-child benefit cap in the November budget, in a move that could cost more than £3bn but lift 350,000 children out of poverty. Why is the cap removal so unpopular with the public? 

Also, Black and Asian NHS staff who do home visits fear some areas have become “no-go zones” for them - areas strewn with St George’s flags. Was this the point all along?

And, Prince William has said that he and Kate decided to be as open as possible in answering “difficult questions” from their children after she was diagnosed with cancer… James hears about your personal experiences around diagnosis.

This episode was recorded on the 11th of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

BBC director general Tim Davie and CEO of News Deborah Turness resigned last night after criticism that Panorama misled viewers by editing a speech by Donald Trump. Trump has since threatened legal action against the BBC… James breaks it all down.

And, it’s highly probable that Chancellor Rachel Reeves will be raising income tax in the upcoming Budget. Considering she promised not to do this in Labour’s manifesto of course, how will we know if it’s the right decision?

This episode was recorded on the 10th of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

An internal Metropolitan police review has found the “racial harm” the force inflicts on black people is “institutionally defended”. Also, Health Secretary Wes Streeting has warned of a “rising tide” of “1970s and 1980s style racism” in the NHS and Britain more widely. What is the difference between racism and institutional racism?

And, the parents of the three girls murdered by Axel Rudakubana have condemned the parents of the killer for their failures to prevent the Southport attack. Indeed, Rudakabana’s father stated he was aware of the “small arsenal of weapons” his son had collected and was “ashamed” he hadn’t called the police. What is it like to be frightened of your own child and what help can parents get? 

This episode was recorded on the 7th of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Two prisoners were mistakenly released from Wandsworth Prison in the last week. William Smith handed himself back in to HMP Wandsworth today, while a manhunt is still underway for Brahim Kaddour-Cherif, an Algerian national who is a sex offender. How can this be happening?

Also, 15 local areas have closed ADHD support waiting lists and another 31 that have introduced tighter criteria, making it more difficult to access support. What impact will this have on people with ADHD and what difference did a diagnosis make for you?

And, James speaks with Tom Cheshire, Sky News correspondent, who explains the investigation that has revealed that X’s (formerly known as Twitter) algorithm amplifies right-wing and extreme content and, in turn, right wing UK politics.

This episode was recorded on the 6th of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Following the first review of the national curriculum in over a decade, children will be taught about budgeting, mortgages and how to spot fake news and AI generated content. Sounds dangerously useful. What do you wish you’d been taught in school, and how do you teach disinformation discernment?

And, Zohran Mamdani is the new Mayor of New York City - the first South Asian and muslim person to be so. This is a significant blow to Donald Trump and the Republicans. James speaks with Ross Barkan, who collaborated with Mamdani on his own New York Senate campaign, to find out more about the Mayor.

This episode was recorded on the 5th of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Rachel Reeves has “no regrets” over potential breaches of Labour’s manifesto pledge not to raise certain taxes in the upcoming Budget… why has she only addressed this and the fallout from 14 years of Conservative austerity, Brexit and Covid-19 now?

Also, experts have stated that women must be given clearer warnings on the potentially fatal dangers of giving birth at home. Is it selfish to demand a home birth?

And, Former US Vice-President Dick Cheney has passed away last night, at the age of 84. LBC’s Washington correspondent Simon Marks compares Trump’s Republican Party to that of Cheney’s, and updates us on the New York Mayoral election.

This episode was recorded on the 4th of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

A “32 year old black British national” has been charged with 11 counts of attempted murder following a knife attack on a train in Cambridgeshire on Saturday evening and a separate incident in London hours before. 

Following new guidance, police are now being forced to disclose the ethnicity of suspects in response to a rise in far-right speculation on social media. Why do people want to know the ethnicity of police suspects and should the police be telling them?

This episode was recorded on the 3rd of November. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Buckingham Palace has announced that Prince Andrew is to lose his prince title and will be leaving his Royal Lodge home in Windsor. What are the Royal Family for, what impact will Andrew have on the monarchy and why are we expected to bow for them?

James is also joined by Emily Matlis, presenter of The News Agents podcast, whose 2019 interview with Andrew was a catalyst for his downfall.

This episode was recorded on the 31s of October. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Sir Keir Starmer has dismissed calls for an investigation into Chancellor Rachel Reeves after she apologised for breaking housing rules when renting out her family home… Is it just party politics driving this story or should she have known better? 

Also, Hurricane Melissa has continued its devastating sweep across the Caribbean, leaving dozens dead. The storm was fuelled by warming oceans, while the UN confirms that ‘humanity has missed its 1.5C climate target’... Why aren’t we taking more action on climate change?

And, a university academic is to receive "substantial damages" after a portrayal of him in a Steve Coogan film about the discovery of Richard III's remains was found to have a defamatory meaning. Steve joined James in the studio to explain it from his perspective.

This episode was recorded on the 30th of October. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Labour's Employment Rights Bill, which would protect workers against zero-hour contracts and unfair dismissals has been sent back to Commons after large defeats in the House of Lords. James digs into the details and asks why employers would vote against this.

And, the Government is defending its plan to use military barracks to house asylum seekers, despite these looking set to cost more than the hotels currently in use. They think it’s worth it to quell public disquiet around asylum hotels. But is it, and will it?

This episode was recorded on the 29th of October. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

The Treasury is considering a “mansion-tax” for owners of higher-value properties to help pull the country out of its multi-billion pound hole. Is this fair?

And, hundreds of asylum seekers could be housed in two military barracks as the government seeks to end the use of “asylum-hotels”. Is this good or bad politics from Sir Keir Starmer?

This episode was recorded on the 28th of October. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

“It drives me mad when I see adverts full of black people, full of Asian people”. Reform MP Sarah Pochin’s racist comments have even drawn widespread criticism - but many from her party refuse to label the comments as racist. How can we best discuss the increase of racism in our public discourse?

And, Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, a former asylum seeker and convicted sex offender who was released from prison in error is back in custody and faces deportation. Shockingly, accidental releases of prisoners have doubled in a year - how?

This episode was recorded on the 27th of October. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

With a potential tax rise on the horizon, James asked whether Rachel Reeves could handle the political and economic fallout. The UK currently relies on roughly 500,000 taxpayers for a third of all income and capital gains tax revenue, raising big questions about fairness, fiscal policy, and whether Labour risks breaking another key pledge if income tax increases.

And, James turned to a stark new finding: the number of 16–24 year olds in England reporting symptoms of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder has more than tripled in the past decade. But James wanted to open the floor to what it is really like living with obsessive compulsive disorder in today’s world?

This episode was recorded on the 24th of October. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10 am on LBC.

The grooming gangs inquiry has been plunged into disarray this week - before it has even started - with four survivors quitting the panel and two frontrunners for chairperson withdrawing. Why is this, and what should the success of the inquiry look like?

And, one in 12 secondary pupils report being put into school isolation rooms at least once a week where they often spend in excess of eight hours, missing more than a full day of lessons, according to research. Why is that, and what impact is it having on kids?

This episode was recorded on the 23rd of October. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

The family courts will no longer work on the presumption that having contact with both parents is in the best interests of a child. Campaigners say this will save many children’s lives. James asks his listeners to share their experiences and is joined by Dr Elizabeth Dalgarno, Director and Founder of SHERA, whose research was instrumental for this ruling.

Also, Rachel Reeves has stressed the long term damage done to the British economy by Brexit in her remarks to the IMF. When will the government finally start telling the truth about Brexit and its effects?

And, President Donald Trump is reportedly demanding the Justice Department pay him $230 million in compensation for the federal investigations into him – a settlement that could ultimately face approval by one of his former lawyers, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche... LBC’s man in Washington, Simon Marks, has the details.

This episode was recorded on the 22nd of October. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.

Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson was in front of the Covid Inquiry today, speaking about the effect of the pandemic and his own policy decisions on young people. How did the lockdowns affect you or the young people in your life?

And, The Economist has argued that legalising cocaine would have myriad societal benefits, eliminating the price premium that incentivises dangerous gang activity, freeing up space and resources within the criminal justice system and ensuring the product itself was safe for users. Two questions: Would legalisation of cocaine decrease or increase the amount of peril that we’re exposed to? And, why are drugs illegal?

This episode was recorded on the 21st of October. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.